financial hardship
One condition of approval for F-1 nonimmigrant status
is that a student shows the ability to pay for his or her education and
support while in the United States. The severe economic hardship
employment authorization benefit is intended to address situations where
a financial need beyond the student's control arises, which was
unforeseen at the time the student applied to the school he or she is
currently attending and after all other potential employment
opportunities have proven to be insufficient.
Examples of such situations include loss of financial
aid or employment through no fault on the part of the student, severe
fluctuations in the value of currency from his/her home country,
unexpected changes in financial condition of the student’s source of
support, medical bills, or other considerable unexpected expenses.
Students may wish to discuss their situation with a
Student Advisor prior to making the decision to apply for this type of
employment authorization.
Requirements:
To be eligible for economic hardship employment
authorization, you must:
- Demonstrate that your current financial situation is
severe, unforeseen, and beyond your control.
- Have been a full-time student in F-1 status for at least one
academic year.
- Have a valid passport, I-94 card, and I-20.
- Be currently enrolled in classes full-time unless it is a semester
break.
- Be in good academic standing with Indiana State University.
TO APPLY:
-
Students applying for economic hardship work authorization must
write a letter to the US Citizenship and Immigration Services
explaining their current situation and must provide proof
that their current situation is severe, unforeseen, and
beyond their control. Examples of such proof include news
reports on economic strife in their home country, documentation
of currency devaluation, statements from their sponsor, proof of
tuition increases, and medical bills or doctor’s statements.
Applicants may also want to include copies of current account
statements demonstrating their need, if appropriate.
- Make an appointment with a Student Advisor. Bring the following documents:
-
Passport, I-94 card, and I-20
- Copy of any previous employment authorization card(s) (EADs)
- Two photos taken within the past 30 days
- Check or money order for $340.00 payable to "USCIS"
- Your statement and proof of financial situation as described above.
- Complete forms I-765, I-538, and signature card at the
Office of International Programs & Services.
All Documents should be sent by the student with a check for the amount of $380.00 to the
Service Center
with jurisdiction over your place of residence (address on item
3 of your I-765).
Click here to download the
financial hardship
application.